Project Highlight: Underground Cultural Landscape Report and Monitoring Plan

By Kylie Baker

Exploring the Cultural Landscape of Carlsbad Caverns: A Collaborative Research Effort

Nestled within the rugged terrain of southeastern New Mexico, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a subterranean wonder, boasting vast chambers, intricate cave formations, and a complex history of human interaction. A recent Pacific Northwest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (PNW CESU) research project, conducted by Robert Z. Melnick, FASLA, Hannah Six, and graduate research assistants of the University of Oregon (UO) in collaboration with the National Park Service (NPS), sought to document the evolving underground landscape of Carlsbad Caverns. This project was funded by the NPS, with technical representative Allison Kennedy guiding its execution.

**The original Carlsbad Caverns National Park Natural Entrance trail (1925-1930), n.d.** *Source: CAVE Underground Draft CLI, 2020)*

The study aimed to assess both natural and human-induced changes within the caves, offering recommendations to the NPS on improving accessibility, maintaining consistency in cultural interpretation, and preserving the site’s historical integrity. The researchers worked closely with cave specialists, including biologist Diana Northup of the University of New Mexico, to evaluate the impact of human interventions on the cave’s microbiology and natural systems.

Building on a Historical Foundation

Melnick and Six built upon prior work conducted by the University of Arkansas’s Center for Advanced Spatial Technologies, incorporating historical records and site maps from the National Archives. In addition to archival research, the team engaged with experts at Carlsbad Caverns, including natural resource specialists, cultural landscape managers, and park staff responsible for maintaining the site. Their work involved extensive photographic documentation and mapping of visitor-accessible areas, which span approximately three miles of underground trails. The cavern’s “Big Room,” a major highlight of the site, features ceilings reaching up to 350 feet in height, presenting unique challenges for conservation and visitor navigation.

**Large group gathers around trail in the Big Room, taken by photographer Herman Hemler on January 1st, 1940.** *Source: NPS-ETIC: CAVE-P87, 1940.*

Understanding Cultural Change in the Caverns

A key aspect of the study was defining the site’s “period of significance,” which spanned from 1901 to 1977. This timeframe encapsulates multiple historical eras, including early cave exploration, guano mining operations, the designation of Carlsbad as a national monument, and its later establishment as a national park. Additionally, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) era, streamlined modern design influences, and late modern and postmodern developments were all examined to understand how human activity shaped the landscape over time.

The research highlighted significant cultural additions, such as trails, handrails, bathrooms, and even an underground hot lunchroom with steam tables, all of which were introduced to enhance the visitor experience. The study also acknowledged the National Park Service’s ongoing efforts to balance modern accessibility with the preservation of historical features.

Challenges in Preservation and Management

One of the major challenges identified was the evolution of site modifications, including unintentional obstructions of historical features. For example, the placement of a handrail on a sloped path inadvertently blocked access to historic benches. Similarly, exposed electrical wiring for cave lighting posed aesthetic and conservation concerns. Another significant issue was trail drainage, as changes in cave hydrology, influenced by climatic variations, resulted in water pooling in certain areas.

To address these challenges, the researchers followed the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, which classify approaches into four categories: preservation, rehabilitation, restoration, and reconstruction. Their recommendations centered on rehabilitation—integrating modern amenities and accessibility improvements while safeguarding the cultural and historical narratives embedded in the landscape.

A Unique Approach to Cultural Landscape Management

Given the vast and complex nature of Carlsbad Caverns, the research team adopted a resource-based approach rather than a site-specific one. They developed guidelines that would allow future researchers and NPS staff to manage newly discovered areas consistently. This approach acknowledged the impossibility of documenting every section of the cave while ensuring that future interventions aligned with established conservation principles.

The project also emphasized innovative methods for visitor education and interpretation. One notable case involved the removal of a deteriorating historic wooden staircase that had become a habitat for microorganisms. Instead of merely dismantling the structure, the team proposed using projected images to illustrate its former presence, allowing visitors to appreciate its historical significance despite its removal.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Future Impact

The interdisciplinary nature of the project proved essential in addressing the complexities of the underground landscape. The collaboration between cultural landscape experts and cave biologist Diana Northup provided valuable insights into the interactions between human-made structures and cave microbiology. This holistic approach ensured that recommendations considered both historical preservation and environmental sustainability, ensuring the long-term protection of our national parks and landscapes.

With the research now complete, the report awaits review by tribal entities and State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPO). The NPS will subsequently determine its implementation strategy in the upcoming years. Nevertheless, this comprehensive study lays a vital foundation for managing Carlsbad Caverns’ cultural landscape. As the landscape continues to evolve, preserving its history remains essential. The work at Carlsbad Caverns safeguards the park’s rich human history while ensuring future generations can both access and appreciate its unique underground heritage.

A special thank you to Robert Z. Melnick, FASLA, Hannah Six, Allison Kennedy, Diana Northup, the UO graduate research assistants, and the Carlsbad Caverns National Park natural resource specialists, cultural landscape managers, and park staff for their critical contributions to this project!